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Senegal’s Sonko rejects Western interference on homosexuality law

By sahel-express / May 22, 2026

Senegal’s Sonko rejects Western interference on homosexuality law

Breaking news. Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has forcefully defended the country’s recently enacted law that intensifies penalties for same-sex relationships, firmly rejecting any international pressure to suspend its enforcement.

Senegal’s Sonko rejects Western interference on homosexuality law

Sonko condemns Western ‘tyranny’ over LGBTQ+ rights

Addressing lawmakers on Friday, Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko criticized what he described as a Western-led campaign to impose foreign values on Senegalese society. “With eight billion people in the world, a small group called the West—thanks to its economic and media dominance—seeks to dictate its will to the rest of humanity.” Sonko’s remarks came as he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the newly passed legislation.

Stricter penalties now in force

Enforced since March 31, the controversial law increases prison sentences for same-sex relationships from five to ten years. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye signed the bill into law, and Sonko dismissed calls for a moratorium, emphasizing the government’s determination to uphold national sovereignty.

A deeply divisive issue

Same-sex relationships remain a highly sensitive topic in Senegal, a predominantly Muslim nation where political, religious, and societal attitudes are deeply entrenched. While human rights groups have condemned the law, supporters argue it aligns with the country’s cultural and religious principles. The government maintains its position is rooted in national sovereignty amid mounting international criticism.

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